6 mo post-op a Mommy Makeover - why is my lower abdomen puffy? How can I fix it?

Question

I had a MMO 6 months ago, and got a second intervention 3 days after to remove a hematoma that formed on the right size of my abdomen under my belly button. I got umbilical float tt. I did not have much skin and my wrinkles were pretty much around the belly button. I still have a pouch on my lower abdomen and sometimes looks like 2 pouches (lower and upper) What could it be? Dr says still inflammation. I used to look flatter before TT. I am adding before and after pics. Please help.

Vasileios Vasilakis, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question. It is very tough to determine the cause of this issue without an in-person assessment. You are still healing, and scarring and inflammation take up to a year to settle. I wish you the best of luck. Vasileios Vasilakis, MD. Double board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon, Houston. TX.

Casey Anderson, MD, FACS · Answer

The amount of skin that can be removed with an umbilical float is less so this can happen. Frequently there can be a little pinch of fat left to cause the bulge. It is possible to correct with liposuction. You would need an exam to confirm.

George Bitar, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question! I would wait for another 6 months to see if it decreases. It may be inflammation or scar tissue that's causing the bulging. Having an hematoma after your tummy tuck does increase the chances of having more swelling/inflammation in the area. If that's the case, then it will improve with time. However, I know waiting can be hard. I generally don't recommend a revision until at least 1 year post-op.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Reliable557674,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for the question and photos.
It can take up to 1 year for the final wound healing to be completed after surgery.
I would wait for now and continue with conservative management including massaging the area. In addition, lymphatic massages can help with inflammation/swelling.
I would definitely discuss your questions and concerns with your Plastic Surgeon.
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzFellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

An examination is needed, but perhaps the muscles were not tighten to give a flatter abdomen, or you may have a collection of fluid. I would suggest going back to your surgeon and discussing this.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It can take up to a year for final results from a tummy tuck.  If you are noticing that your abdomen is flatter in the morning and becomes swollen throughout the day you may consider light support during the day.  Lymphatic massage is another option to help with swelling.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Without in person or virtual examination can guess that liposuction might improve your results. Fees in $6,000 ranges.

6 mo post-op a Mommy Makeover - why is my lower abdomen puffy? How can I fix it?

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